England
vs
Costa Rica
Kick-off
19:00 GMT
07 June 2018
The 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia is within touching distance now, less than two weeks away. Warm-ups are well underway for the involved national sides and England’s second pre-tournament friendly takes place on Thursday as they welcome Costa Rica to Wembley.
The two nations have met just once and that came at the last World Cup in Brazil in 2014. It was one of the most boring matches of the whole tournament as it ended goallessly. With it only being a friendly, especially so close to the World Cup, fireworks aren’t expected but it should be a good indicator of how both sides will set up in two weeks.
Ahead of making the trip to Russia, Gareth Southgate has confirmed both Jack Butland and Trent Alexander-Arnold will start at Elland Road. Jamie Vardy is also expected to start the clash to provide another option for the Three Lions. Latest matches: England
02.06.2018
Inte
England
Nigeria
2:1
W
27.03.2018
Inte
England
Italy
1:1
D
23.03.2018
Inte
Netherlands
England
0:1
W
14.11.2017
Inte
England
Brazil
0:0
D
10.11.2017
Inte
England
Germany
0:0
D
Keylor Navas is the most well-known name in the Costa Rican team and the Champions League winner should start while Fulham fans should remember Bryan Ruiz who will also feature on Thursday.
Latest matches: Costa Rica
03.06.2018 | ![]() |
Costa Rica | Northern Ireland | 3:0 | W |
27.03.2018 | ![]() |
Tunisia | Costa Rica | 1:0 | L |
23.03.2018 | ![]() |
Scotland | Costa Rica | 0:1 | W |
14.11.2017 | ![]() |
Hungary | Costa Rica | 1:0 | L |
11.11.2017 | ![]() |
Spain | Costa Rica | 5:0 | L |
It’s no shock to see that England are favourites to win in their final game before they leave for the World Cup and anything other than a win could be disastrous so close to the tournament. Costa Rica performed well in Brazil four years ago so don’t write them off for an upset not only at Elland Road but also in Russia.
07 June 2018 - 19:00 GMT
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